Genetic diversity among wild and cultivated germplasm of the perennial pasture grass

Phalaris aquatica L. (phalaris) is a cool-season perennial grass originating from the Mediterranean Basin, north-west Africa and Middle Eastern regions that used for livestock agriculture mainly in temperate areas with dry summers. It has been subject of breeding programs Australia, South America, New Zealand USA. Increased knowledge relationships between wild cultivated germplasm through use molecular markers potential to facilitate future gains. For this purpose, we conducted an analysis P. by using 3905 polymorphic DArTseq SNP markers. Genetic diversity as measured expected heterozygosity was similar (HE = 0.14; n 57) 0.13; 37) accessions. Diversity generally continuous nature, largely related geographical location, division at broadest scale into eastern western clades, more admixture than clade. Structure indicated six subpopulations consistent country origin, some among likely resulting natural human influences. There were nine accessions combined. This population structure should be considered if genomic selection applied aquatica. Analysis variance 71% genetic variation occurred within 29% subpopulations. distances low most countries except USA, which distinct. Evaluation material US pool other countries, additional less utilised clade, may worthwhile.